Michael Broomhead

Candidates vying to become Chesterfield’s next MP will be in the spotlight during a debate ahead of the General Election.

Toby Perkins for the Labour Party, Mark Vivis for the Conservative Party, Julia Cambridge for the Liberal Democrats, Stuart Yeowart for the UK Independence Party, Matt Genn for the Green Party and Matt Whale for the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition, have all been invited to attend the event.

It will take place in the Assembly Rooms, based on the first floor of Chesterfield’s Market Hall, at 7pm on Friday, April 17.

The Question Times-style event has been organised by four community groups whose members want to find out what candidates have to say about the NHS, council cuts, public spending priorities and policies for disabled and unemployed people.

Anyone can attend and the public is welcome to submit questions which may be asked depending on time.

To apply for a ticket, contact Val Graham by emailing Val@patrick47.fsnet.co.uk or calling 01246 452661.

You will be sent a ticket and form to send in any questions.

Meanwhile, residents are being reminded that they must register to vote by Monday, April 20, if they want to take part in the General Election.

The Electoral Commission has launched a public awareness campaign to remind people of the need to be registered.

Otherwise, they will not be able to vote on Thursday, May 7.

An Electoral Commission spokesman said: “There has already been a great deal of interest and debate ahead of the General Election, with voters keen to have their say.

“However, many people do not realise that they aren’t registered and how easy it is to do so.

“We don’t want anyone to be turned away on polling day – so if you aren’t registered, take action now.”

Voters should visit www.aboutmyvote.co.uk or call 0800 4320 712 to become registered.